The Perfect Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe

Crafting a salted caramel chocolate chip cheesecake brings pure culinary magic right into your kitchen.

Sweet and salty notes dance together in this irresistible dessert.

Creamy textures melt seamlessly with rich chocolate chunks.

caramel swirls create delightful pockets of indulgence throughout each slice.

chocolate chips add unexpected bursts of intense flavor.

Layers of complexity make this cheesecake more than just a simple dessert.

Grab your mixing bowl and prepare to experience a truly spectacular treat that will become your new favorite indulgence.

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake with Bold Flavor

• Transform an ordinary cheesecake into a luxurious treat that wows guests with its rich, complex flavor profile and stunning presentation.
• Perfect for both novice and experienced bakers, this recipe provides clear steps and simple techniques that guarantee a professional-looking dessert without stress.
• Combines beloved flavors like chocolate, caramel, and cheesecake that appeal to multiple taste preferences, making it an instant hit at gatherings, potlucks, and family celebrations.
• Easily adaptable recipe allows for personal touches like adjusting chocolate chip quantity, experimenting with different caramel salt levels, or adding extra toppings to suit individual preferences.

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Breakdown

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A sweet and crunchy base that provides a delightful texture for the cheesecake.
• Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust together and adds richness.
• Granulated Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the crust.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that creates the smooth and creamy texture of the cheesecake.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
• Large Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the filling together.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm and aromatic flavor to the cheesecake.
• Sour Cream: Creates a tangy and rich texture in the filling.
• Chocolate Chips: Adds delicious chocolate bursts throughout the cheesecake.

• Granulated Sugar: The base for creating the caramel sauce.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and depth to the caramel.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a smooth and creamy caramel sauce.
• Salt: Provides a delightful contrast to the sweet caramel.

Steps to Build Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake

Step 1: Create the Crispy Crust

Grab your graham crackers and crush them into fine crumbs.

• Melted butter
• Sugar

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.

Pop it in the oven at 325F (163C) for 10 minutes until golden.

Let it cool completely while you prepare the dreamy filling.

Step 2: Blend the Creamy Filling

Using an electric mixer, whip the cream cheese until silky smooth.

Gradually add sugar and mix until well combined.

Incorporate eggs one by one, then stir in vanilla extract and sour cream.

Gently fold in chocolate chips for delightful bursts of sweetness throughout.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pour the luscious filling over the cooled crust.

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the edges look set but the center still has a gentle wobble.

Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside for an hour to prevent unsightly cracks.

Step 4: Craft the Salted Caramel Drizzle

In a saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat until it transforms into a beautiful amber color.

Carefully add butter and stir until melted.

Slowly whisk in heavy cream and a pinch of salt.

Remove from heat and let the sauce cool and thicken.

Step 5: Final Flourish

Once the cheesecake has completely cooled, drizzle the luxurious salted caramel sauce over the top.

Sprinkle additional chocolate chips for extra indulgence.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld together perfectly.

Tricks That Help with Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake

• Let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven after baking to minimize surface cracks and create a silky smooth texture.
• Toss chocolate chips in a little flour before folding into the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
• Watch the sugar carefully when making caramel sauce and swirl the pan instead of stirring to ensure even, golden-brown color without burning.
• Ensure all filling ingredients are at room temperature to create a perfectly smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter that blends seamlessly.
• Dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between each cut to create beautiful, clean slices of cheesecake without dragging the filling.

Keep Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake On Hand

• Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring the flavor and texture remain delicious.
• Carefully wrap the entire cheesecake in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Cut cheesecake into portions, wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 weeks. Unwrap and thaw in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours.
• Warm individual slices at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the cheesecake texture rubbery and compromise its creamy consistency.

Serve Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake with These

• Pair with Rich Red Wine: Select a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to complement the decadent chocolate and caramel flavors, balancing the cheesecake's sweetness with robust wine notes.
• Enhance with Espresso Martini: Create a sophisticated cocktail pairing by serving an espresso martini alongside the cheesecake, where the coffee's bitter undertones cut through the dessert's richness and provide a luxurious contrast.
• Match with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream next to the cheesecake slice, allowing the creamy, cold texture to create a delightful temperature and flavor harmony with the warm caramel and chocolate chips.
• Complement with Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle a small handful of toasted almonds or pecans around the plate, adding a crunchy texture and nutty depth that enhances the caramel and chocolate elements of the dessert.

Unique Variations for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake

• Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour. Use certified gluten-free chocolate chips to ensure the entire dessert is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Caramel Chocolate Cheesecake: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Replace eggs with silken tofu or commercial egg replacer. Create vegan caramel sauce using coconut milk and coconut sugar.
• Low-Sugar Chocolate Chip Cheesecake: Use sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Select dark chocolate chips with minimal sugar content. Incorporate Greek yogurt for added creaminess while reducing overall sugar levels.
• Keto-Friendly Chocolate Cheesecake: Swap graham cracker crust with crushed pecans and almond flour. Use full-fat cream cheese and sugar-free chocolate chips. Create caramel sauce with sugar-free sweeteners and heavy cream for a low-carb alternative.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients for this cheesecake?

The key ingredients include cream cheese, graham cracker crumbs, butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, chocolate chips, and ingredients for salted caramel sauce like sugar, heavy cream, and salt.

• Can I use a different type of chocolate for the chips?

Yes, you can substitute milk, dark, or semi-sweet chocolate chips based on your preference. Just ensure they are good quality baking chocolate chips that will melt smoothly in the cheesecake.

• How do I know when the cheesecake is properly baked?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It should not be completely solid when you gently shake the pan. The top should look slightly puffy and not wet.

• What's the purpose of letting the cheesecake cool in the oven?

Cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven helps prevent cracking by allowing it to gradually come to room temperature. The residual heat helps the cheesecake set without creating sudden temperature changes that can cause surface cracks.

Decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Salted caramel chocolate chip cheesecake delivers a rich symphony of indulgent flavors that dance across your palate. Creamy texture and sweet-salty balance invite passionate dessert enthusiasts to savor each luxurious bite with pure culinary delight.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 24 ounces (680 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (200 grams) sugar

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) sugar

Caramel and Additional Ingredients:

• 1 cup (200 grams) sugar
• 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 cup (170 grams) chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup (120 grams) sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Craft a buttery foundation by blending graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar, pressing the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 325F for 10 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
2. Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese until velvety smooth. Gradually incorporate sugar, ensuring thorough integration. Introduce eggs individually, followed by vanilla and sour cream, creating a luxurious, silky texture.
3. Gently fold chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
4. Transfer the filling onto the prepared crust, spreading it uniformly. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, watching for set edges with a subtle center wobble.
5. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for one hour, preventing potential surface cracks and ensuring a perfect, creamy consistency.
6. For the caramel sauce, melt sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a rich amber color. Carefully introduce butter, stirring until fully incorporated.
7. Slowly whisk heavy cream and salt into the caramel, creating a glossy, indulgent sauce. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
8. Once the cheesecake has completely cooled, generously drizzle with salted caramel and sprinkle additional chocolate chips across the surface.
9. Refrigerate for minimum 4 hours or overnight, allowing flavors to meld and texture to set perfectly.

Notes

• Prevent cracks by using room temperature ingredients and avoiding overmixing the batter, which can incorporate too much air and cause splitting during baking.
• Create a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger baking dish filled with hot water to ensure even, gentle heating and a silky smooth texture.
• Customize the cheesecake by swapping chocolate chips for different mix-ins like chopped nuts, white chocolate, or crushed toffee for unique flavor variations.
• Make the dessert gluten-free by substituting graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs, maintaining the same rich, buttery crust texture.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 40 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg